The Salem Fire & EMS Department responded to an apartment fire this morning at approximately 8:51 a.m. Firefighters could see smoke from several blocks away as they approached the complex, but they were able to quickly knock down the structure fire and all occupants made it out of the building safely. Approximately 20 residents were evacuated from various apartements, but there were no injuries due to the fire.
The first units arrived within 5 minutes of receiving the call and found heavy fire and smoke coming from a third-floor apartment and flames that were reaching into the attic. Crews immediately began an interior fire attack and a primary search of the building for any occupants. A juvenile was discovered in an adjacent apartment and evacuated without injury by fire personnel. Firefighters were able to bring the fire under control within 30 minutes of their arrival, but the building sustained significant fire, smoke, and water damage. Damage from the fire is estimated at $700,000.
Approximately 32 personnel from the Salem Fire & EMS Department (Truck 1, Engine 2, Engine 3, Rescue 801, Medic 802, Battalion 1 & Fire Medic 1) and the Roanoke Fire & EMS Department (Engine 5, Engine 13, Ladder 5 & Battalion 1) responded to the call.
The Salem Fire Marshal’s Office has investigated the fire and determined it was accidental in nature and caused by the improper disposal of smoking materials. The Red Cross is now assisting approximately 32 residents who were displaced by the fire.